Got this in an E-Mail today
"Bill Purdie, THE Master Mechanic of Steam passed away yesterday.
Rest in Peace Mr. Bill Purdie, 95 years old and one tough guy. Mr
Purdie was the last Master Mechanic of Steam for Southern Railway and
into the NS Steam Program. I just found out he dropped his fire around
20:25 this evening. With him goes an immense knowledge of Steam
Locomotive rebuilding, repair and operations. My condolences to Donald
and the rest of his family. He will be missed.
Thefireman "